30 y.o. emotionally disturbed man killed by SWAT sniper on his front porch, while grasping his 7 y.o. son. Decedent’s mother had called police after they argued and he had slapped a cell phone out of her hand. SWAT arrived with Bearcat; 4 hour standoff ensued; Decedent was drunk and belligerent inside the home with his son. Decedent finally agreed to give up son on front porch. Swat team exploded a flash bang in the home, and when Decedent grabbed for his son, sniper shot him. Survived by son and Decedent’s parents. $6.5 million was punitive damages against shooter, SWAT commander, and another officer. Attorneys’ fees to be added post-judgment.
Verdict
State
Court
Total Dollar Amount
15,000,000
Punitive Damages
6,500,000
Year Resolved
Excessive Force
Yes
Fatal Excessive Force
Yes